COVARIANCE.P in WPS on Windows FAQ

Last updated:July 17, 2026

This FAQ covers 4 common question types about COVARIANCE.P, including input errors, argument prompts, unexpected results, and function selection.

FAQ

What should I do if COVARIANCE.P shows an error after I enter it?

  1. Check whether the formula starts with =.
  2. Check whether the brackets, separators, and number of arguments are correct.
  3. Confirm that both argument ranges are entered correctly and can be used in the calculation.

How can I view the argument prompt for COVARIANCE.P?

  1. Select the target cell and type =COVARIANCE.P(.
  2. Look for the syntax prompt near the formula bar.
  3. Continue entering the argument ranges based on the prompt.

What should I check if the calculation result looks incorrect?

  1. Check whether the referenced ranges contain numbers stored as text.
  2. Check whether the two data ranges match the intended data and were selected correctly.
  3. Edit the source data and see whether the result updates again.

What is the difference between COVARIANCE.P and other covariance functions?

  1. COVARIANCE.P is used for population covariance.
  2. Before using it, confirm whether your analysis is based on a population or a sample.
  3. In the same workbook, choose the function that matches your statistical method.

Glossary

TermDefinition
COVARIANCE.PA statistical function that returns the population covariance of two data sets.
Argument rangeA cell range passed into a function for calculation.
Cross-sheet referenceA formula reference that points to a data range on another worksheet in the same workbook.
Automatic recalculationThe behavior in which a formula result updates automatically after referenced data changes.